A GUISELEY schoolboy has landed a leading role in a six-part BBC drama.

Six-year-old Max Vento is working alongside an impressive line-up of household names, including Christopher Eccleston (Doctor Who; Fortitude), Lee Ingleby (Our Zoo), Morven Christie (Grantchester), Greg McHugh (Fresh Meat) and Vinette Robinson (Sherlock).

The youngster, who attends WYSPA Dance and Drama Academy in Guiseley, plays a boy who is diagnosed with autism in the high-profile TV series The A Word, which will be aired later this year on BBC One.

Max has spent the past 14 weeks filming in various locations in the Lake District and Manchester. The A Word tells the story of the Hughes family, whose youngest son is diagnosed with autism.

Academy principal, Karen Fawcett, described the drama as a thought-provoking series about parenthood and childhood.

She said Max, who attends weekly drama, dance and singing classes in Guiseley, is "an incredibly talented little boy".

She added: "In order to land the role, Max attended various auditions and recalls where he wowed the directors.

"From the very first time Max came to WYSPA, we could tell he had the potential to be a star. It is very rare a six-year-old can follow direction and understand instructions as well as Max. He has previously filmed for various commercials and has also been involved in filming for a short film."

Karen said she and the teachers at WYSPA were all very proud of Max, who had worked hard and shown dedication during the entire filming period.

She added: "He has put all his efforts into filming and we are all really excited to watch him on BBC One.

"This has been a great opportunity for Max; he has said he’s loved the filming and really enjoyed learning his lines. You can clearly see how much he has enjoyed the experience when you talk to him. Various other WYSPA pupils have also been involved with the filming, and they have loved every minute of it.

"This casting has been one in a series of successes for WYSPA Castings, who have been going from strength to strength during the past few years. WYSPA pupils have been cast in various commercials, films, dramas, major musicals and numerous other projects. Recently, two girls, both aged 11 from WYSPA, have been recalled for lead roles in a new CBBC drama and we are waiting to hear from the producers."

Call the studio on 01943 876000 for more details about classes.